An emblem or other device displayed on a flag, generally in the fly. BANNER A rectangular flag used by a king, prince, duke, or other noble. The coat of arms of the owner covers the banner's entire surface. The term is also loosely applied to a national flag (e.g., the "star-Spangkled Banner") and is today synonymous with flag. BOW The foward section of a ship. CANTON The four quarters of a flag are named cantons, especially the upper quarter of the hoist, that is, the upper left hand corner of the flag; the canton is sometimes also called the union COAT OF ARMS The armorial and/or other heraldic badges of an owner displayed on a cloak or shield. COLORS The national and regimental or armorial flags carried by dismounted organizations (such as a color guard). Hence, the national color for Army and Marine Corps regiments is the U.S. flag. The term also applies to the national ensign flown aboard a naval vessel. ENSIGN A special flag based on a country's national flag and used exclusively on naval ships or merchant ships. The civil ensign is the merchant marine's flag. The U.S.

flag serves as a national flag, naval ensign, and civil ensign. Great Britain, on the other hand, has a white ensign for naval ships, a red ensign for merchant ships, and a blue ensign for merchant ships commanded by an officer in the Naval Reserve. Great Britain also has an ensign for the Royal Air Force and one for airports. ESTOILE A six-pointed, usually wavy, star. FIELD The ground of each division of a flag. FLY The edge of a flag farthest from the staff. FOREMAST The mast nearest the bow of a sailing ship. GARRISON A military installation, such as a fort. Also, the troops stationed there. GARRISON FLAG A large U.S. flag flown at forts. During the war of 1812, garrison flags were 20 feet by 40 feet. The Star-Spangled Banner measured 30 feet by 42 feet. HALYARD The rope by which a flag is raised on a flagpole. HOIST (N.) The edge of a flag nearest the staff. (vb.) To raise a flag. HOIST ROPE The rope on which a flag is flown on a flagpole.

JACK A flag flown at the bow of warships when anchored. Great Britain's jack - the British Union Jack - combines the Crosses of St. George, St. Andrew, and St. Patrick on a blue field. The U.S. Union Jack carrries 50 white stars on a blue field (the canton of the Naval Ensign). According to U.S. Navy reulations, the U.S. Union Jack should be the same size as the canton of the Naval Ensign flown at the ships stern. MAINMAST The principal mast of a sailing ship. MULLET A five-pointed star, representative of a knight's spur. SALTINE in the days of sail, a naval ship that fought in the line of battle. STAFF A small pole from which a flag is flown. STANDARD A flag which is colored according to the owner's livery and displays the owner's badge or badges instead of his arms. The term "national standard" is used to describe the national and regimental flags carried by mounted or motorized organizations. STERN The rear of a ship. STORM FLAG The U.S. flag which is flown at military installations during inclement weather. It is smaller than the U.S.

flag that is usually flown at the installation. TASK FORCE A group of naval ships such as a squadron, several squadrons, or a fleet with a specific military objective to accomplish. UNION A flag or device of a flag symbolizing the union of countries or states. Also, the canton of (1) the U.S. flag, (2) British ensigns, and (3) British Commonwealth flags that are based on the British ensigns. Flag Terminology Parts of a Flag All 50 State Flags The Parts of a Flag When talking about flags, several words are used to describe a flag that may not always be familiar to all. The diagram below will help you to understand the different parts of a flag and help you to understand the descriptions of the state flags at NETSTATE.COM. About the Parts of Flags and Related Items Anatomy of a Flag Hoist: Hoist is used to describe the height of the flag while flying. The term also refers to the edge of the flag that is attached to the flagpole or staff. You may hear the term "hoist end" to refer to this part of a flag. Fly: 1) The length of the flag as measured from the attachment to the farthest point.

2) The distance from the end of the canton to the free end of the flag. 3) The width (length) of an extended flag. Fly end: The fly end is the part of the flag that flaps in the wind and sometimes becomes frayed. Canton: When it exists, the canton is found in the upper left-hand corner of a flag. By definition, it is the "top inner corner of a flag." Flags with cantons include the United States flag, the Georgia flag, the Hawaii flag and the Mississippi flag. Field: The section of the flag between the hoist and the fly ends is called the field or, sometimes, the ground. It does not include the canton. Flagpoles Flagpole: A flag is most often attached to an object of support such as a flagpole, staff or flagstaff, or mast. In general, when a flag is flown outdoors, if flies from a flagpole. When a flag is carried in a parade or displayed indoors, it is attached to a staff. On a boat or ship, a flag may be attached to a mast.

Truck: The truck is the cap at the top of a flagpole and may have holes to attach pulleys to raise and lower a flag. Staff Ornament or Finial: The flagpole or staff may be topped with a decorative ornament or finial. A finial is an uppermost decoration such as the sphere illustrated above. Halyard: A halyard is a rope or cable used to raise and lower a flag on a flagpole. Good Flag Design You may have heard or seen the term, Vexillology before. Vexillology is simply the "study of flags." There are thousands and thousands of people around the world who are interested in vexillology and these people have formed organizations. In our opinion, one of prime results from the study of flags is the answer to the question, "What constitutes good flag design?" When we look at the state flags , we see a wide variation in flag design. Some flags make little impression on us. Others are memorable and seem to celebrate the state to which they belong. The North American Vexillological Association defines five principles of good flag design . AR 840-10 covers U.S. Army Regulations for display of the U.S. Flag. a.

The flag of the United States is the symbol of our nation. The union, white stars on a field of blue, is the honor point of the flag. The union of the flag, and the flag itself when in company with other flags, is always given the honor position; for example, the marching right, the flag’s own right or an observer’s left facing the flag. b. The flag of the United States must always be of current design as prescribed by chapters 1 title 4, United States Code (4 USC chapter 1, The Flag). The U.S. flag will always be displayed or carried in ceremonies when any other flags are displayed or carried. 2–2. Time and occasion for display a. The flag of the United States will be displayed outdoors at all Army installations. b. Only one flag of the United States will be flown at one time at any continental United States (CONUS) Army installation, except as authorized by the commanding generals of major Army commands (MACOM). Major commands may delegate this authority to major subordinate commands. Installations which have other federal agencies as tenants may permit those federal agencies to display the U.S. flag on or in front of their facility. c.

The flag of the United States is the only flag that may be flown from a flagpole over a CONUS Army installation unless an exception is granted by TIOH, U.S. Army. However, the Minutem a n f l a g ( A R 6 0 8 - 1 5 ) , t h e P r i s o n e r o f W a r / M i s s i n g i n A c t i o n (POW/MIA) flag, the Retiree flag, or the Commander-in-Chief’s Installation Excellence Award flag, when authorized, may be flown beneath the flag of the United States without referral to TIOH for exception. The POW/MIA flag will be flown beneath the flag of the United States on Armed Forces Day, the third Saturday in May; Memorial Day, the last Monday in May; Flag Day, June 14; Independence Day, July 4; National POW/MIA Day; Veterans Day, November 11 and on occasions when the installation is hosting POW/MIA activities. The Retiree flag may be flown on Veterans Day or occasions when the installation is sponsoring activities for retirees such as open house or retiree day.

Not more than one flag will be displayed below the flag of the United States and, if displayed, will be approximately 6 inches below the flag of the United States. d. The flag of the United States should be displayed with foreign national flags at overseas installations according to applicable international agreements. e. The flag of the United States will be displayed daily from reveille to retreat. f. MACOM commanders may authorize permanent or semipermanent (more than one week at a time) 24-hour display of the flag provided the flag is properly illuminated with its own source of light during hours of darkness. Major commands may delegate this authority to major subordinate commands. g. Local or installation commanders may authorize nighttime display of the flag of the United States during special events or on special occasions, provided the flag is properly illuminated. 2–3. Sizes and occasions for display a. National flags listed below are for outdoor display. (1) Garrison flag—20-foot hoist by 38-foot fly, of approved material. (The post flag may be flown in lieu of the garrison flag.) The garrison flag may be flown on the following holidays and special occasions: (a) New Year’s Day, 1 January.

(b) Inauguration Day, 20 January every fourth year. (c) Martin Luther King, Jr’s Birthday, third Monday in January. (d) President’s Day, third Monday in February. (e) Easter Sunday (variable). (f) Loyalty Day and Law Day, USA, 1 May. (g) Mother’s Day, second Sunday in May. (h) Armed Forces Day, third Saturday in May. (i) National Maritime Day, 22 May. (j) Memorial Day, last Monday in May. (k) Flag Day, 14 June. (l) Father’s Day, third Sunday in June. (m) Independence Day, 4 July. (n) National Aviation Day, 19 August. (o) Labor Day, first Monday in September. (p) Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, 17 September. (q) Gold Star Mother’s Day, last Sunday in September. (r) Columbus Day, second Monday in October. (s) Veterans Day, 11 November. (t) Thanksgiving Day, fourth Thursday in November. (u) Christmas Day, 25 December. (v) Important occasions as designated by Presidential Proclamation or Headquarters, Department of the Army (HQDA).

(w) Celebration of a regional nature when directed by the installation commander. (2) Post flag—8-foot 11 3/8-inch hoist by 17-foot fly, of approved material. The post flag is flown daily except when the garrison and storm flags are flown. When a garrison flag is not available, the post flag will be flown on holidays and important occasions. 4 AR 840–10 • 1 November 1998 (3) Field flag—6-foot 8-inch hoist by 12-foot fly, of approved material. The field flag may be displayed from a flag pole only when distinguished visitors are present and only with the positional field flag. (4) Storm flag—5-foot hoist by 9-foot 6-inch fly, of approved material. The storm flag is flown in inclement weather. (5) Internment flag—5-foot hoist by 9-foot 6 inch fly, of approved material. The internment flag is authorized for deceased military personnel and for deceased veterans. Upon application to the nearest postmaster, the Veterans Administration will provide flags for deceased veterans.

(6) Boat flag—3-foot hoist by 4-foot fly, of approved material. The U.S. boat flag is displayed only with positional boat flag colors and general officers flags. (7) Ensign—2-foot 4 7/16-inch hoist by 4-foot 6-inch fly, of approved material. The ensign will be displayed on vessels when required to indicate nationality. (8) Union jack—The union jack consists of a blue base with white stars similar in all respects to the union of the flag of the United States. The union jack is flown on ships at anchor or tied up at pier. When flown with the flag of the United States, the union jack will be the same size as the union of the national color being flown. What is the name of the ball that sits at the top of the flagpole? Truck What does the Truck represent? The shot heard round the world (fired April 17th 1775 at Lexington Massachusetts) On post, where is building number 1 located? At the base of the flag pole Name the types of military flags • Colors, standards How is the flag flown on Memorial Day?

At half-mast till noon, then from noon until retreat sounds, it is at full staff When the flag is flown at night, what must be done? It must be illuminated What date was the Army flag dedicated? 14 June 1956 (it was approved 12 June 1956) When a President or Past President dies, how long is the flag flown at half-mast? 30 days How is the flag draped over the casket? So the stars are over the left shoulder How many stripes does the American flag have? 13 stripes (7 red and 6 white) What is the difference between the National Colors and the National Flag? The National Colors is trimmed on 3 sides with golden yellow fringe What do the colors on the flag represent? • Red-Hardiness and Valor • Blue- Vigilance, Preservation and Justice When Military personnel die, the flag is presented to the beneficiary, who provides the flag? The postmaster general When the national flag is worn out, how is it disposed of? The section of the flag with the stars is cut from the flag and then both pieces are burned together What are the 2 ways that the flag can be displayed? 1.

Flat Who is traditionally responsible for the safeguarding, care and display of the unit's colors? The Command Sergeant Major How is the American flag raised to the half-staff position? It is first raised all the way to the top of the staff for an instant, then lowered to half staff If a flag is in the half-staff position, how is it lowered? It is first raised to the top of the staff for a brief moment, and then it is lowered. What is a pennant? A triangular flag used for various military purposes When folded, what is the shape of the American flag? The shape like that of a cocked hat What does the Hoist and Fly of a flag mean? The Hoist is the width of a flag (vertical edge measured from top to bottom); the Fly is the length of the flag (horizontal edge, measured from left to right) What Army Regulations govern the raising and the lowering of the Flag? AR 600-25 What are the two bugle calls played at Retreat? "Retreat" and "To The Color" What does Retreat mean?

Retiring the colors from the day's activities What are some places that the flag is flown 24 hours a day by specific legal authority as of January 1966? • US Capitol in Washington, DC • Fort McHenry National Monument, Flag House Square in Baltimore, MD • Francis Scott Keys Grave • The World War Memorial in Worcester, Massachusetts • USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii Are the colors ever dipped as a salute or compliment? Never on land, only at sea when 2 friendly ships of war meet Name the 3 types of flags normally flown and their sizes 1. Storm- 5ft x 9 and 1/2 ft 2. Post- 8ft 11 3/8 inches x 17 ft 3. Garrison- 20 ft x 38 ft What are the 5 basic US flags used by the Army? 1. Garrison British Flag Protocol - The Flag Institute British Flag Protocol Appendix C – United Kingdom Flag Specifications The Union Flag The national flag of the United Kingdom, the Crown Dependencies and Overseas Territories is the Union Flag, which may also be called the Union Jack.

[1] The first Union Flag was created in 1606 and combined the flags of England and Scotland. The present Union Flag dates from 1801 when St. Patrick’s Cross was added to represent Ireland. It then became possible to display the flag upside down. There is no Flag Act in UK law and the Union Flag is the national flag by long established custom and practice, rather than by statute. The Flag Protocol of the United Kingdom The national flags of the United Kingdom (ie. the Union Flag and the flags of England, Scotland and Wales) should be displayed only in a dignified manner befitting the national emblems. They should not be displayed in a position inferior to any other flag or ensign. It is improper to use the national flags as a table or seat cover or as a masking for boxes, barriers, or the intervening space between a dais or platform and the floor. The use of any of the national flags to cover a statue, monument or plaque for an unveiling ceremony is discouraged. The First Union Flag Flying the Flag Flags may be flown on every day of the year.

Government and local authority buildings in England, Scotland and Wales are encouraged to fly national flags every day of the year (the flying of flags at certain locations in Northern Ireland is constrained by The Flags Regulations [Northern Ireland] 2000 and Police Emblems and Flag Regulations [Northern Ireland] 2002). [2] Flags are normally flown from sunrise to sunset but they may also be flown at night, when they should be illuminated. No permission is needed to fly the national flags and they are excluded from most planning and advertising regulations (but flagpoles may not be). National flags should never be flown in a worn or damaged condition, or when soiled. To do so is to show disrespect for the nations they represent. Important: the Union Flag has a correct way up – in the half of the flag nearest the flagpole, the wider diagonal white stripe must be above the red diagonal stripe, as Scotland’s St Andrew’s Cross takes precedence over Ireland’s St. Patrick’s Cross. It is most improper to fly the flag upside down. If a purely decorative effect is desired it is better to confine the display to flags of lesser status; for example, house flags, pennants or coloured bunting.

The Modern Union Flag This Flag is Upside Down! Position of Honour The order of precedence of flags in the UK is: Royal Standards, the Union Flag, the flag of the host country (England, Scotland, Wales, etc.), flags of other nations (in alphabetical order, see the list below ), the Commonwealth Flag, the European Union Flag, county flags, flags of cities or towns, banners of arms, and house flags. See Appendix B for a detailed precedence list and special precedence orders for international organizations. When British national flags are flown with the flags of other nations each flag should be the same size (or have the same width – the measurement from top to bottom) and should fly from a separate flagpole of the same height. [3] The UK’s flag shape of 3:5 works well with nearly all other nations’ flags and it is recommended to use these proportions if a standard size is required for all the flags in a display. [4] The senior British national flag (eg. the Union Flag or the flag of England, Scotland or Wales) should be raised first and lowered last, unless all the flags can be raised and lowered simultaneously. Flags should be raised and lowered in a dignified manner.

An alternative British tradition for flag raising is to hoist the flag while rolled up and secured with a thin piece of cotton or a slip knot. A sharp tug of the halyard will break the cotton and release the flag to fly free. This is known as ‘breaking’ the flag, and is sometimes used to signal the beginning of an event, or the arrival of a VIP. 1. Fold in half National flags should be displayed as follows: In Front of and On a Building Where there are two or more flagpoles parallel to the building line, the senior national flag should be the first flag on the left of an observer facing the main entrance of the building. The remaining flags then appear in order of precedence from left to right. Where there are two or more flagpoles on the forecourt of a building angled to the main entrance, the senior national flag should be flown on the outermost pole when the flagpoles are to the left of the main entrance and on the innermost pole when the flagpoles are to the right of the main entrance, as shown in the diagram. If only one flag is to be flown and there are two flagpoles, it should be flown on the flagpole to the observer’s left.

If there are more than two flagpoles, it should be flown as near as possible to the centre. This only applies when the other flagpoles remain empty. It is permissible to fly the same national flag on more than one flagpole by repeating the order of precedence. If one flagpole is higher than the rest, then the senior national flag can fly from that flagpole; however no non-UK national flags can be flown on the other flagpoles. These can be used for more junior flags such as county and house flags. Alternatively the higher flagpole can be left empty and the remaining flagpoles used. In general when siting flagpoles it is preferable to keep them at the same level to avoid protocol restrictions. The appropriate size of flag for any flagpole is a matter of aesthetics but, as a guide, a ground-level flagpole should have a flag whose length (its longer dimension) is no more than 1/3 of the pole’s height. A flagpole on top of a building may need a larger flag because of the added height of the building. Within a Circle of Flags In a semi-circle of flags representing a number of nations, the senior national flag should be in the centre.

The remaining flags should be placed with the next most senior flag (or first in alphabetical order if all the flags are of equal seniority) on the left of the central flag, the next on the right of the central flag, the next on the 2nd left from the central flag, and continuing to alternate left and right. In an enclosed circle of flags representing a number of nations, the senior national flag should be flown on the flagpole immediately opposite the main entrance to the venue, or above the Royal Box if there is no main entrance. The remaining flags should be arranged as for the semi-circle of flags described above. Alternatively they can be arranged alphabetically, going clockwise. From a Flagpole with Yardarm and Gaff When displayed on a flagpole fitted with yardarms (horizontal cross-pieces), the senior national flag or ensign [5] should be flown from the starboard yardarm (the right as viewed from the rear, the left as viewed from the front). If the flagpole is fitted with a gaff (a short pole attached to the flagpole at an angle – see diagram), the senior ensign should be flown from the gaff.

If there is no ensign to be flown, the gaff should be left empty and the senior national flag flown from the starboard yardarm, as described above. A yacht club burgee or distinguishing flag can be flown from the masthead, the highest point of the flagpole. In Processions The senior national flag should always lead in a single file of flags. When two or more flags are carried side-by-side, the senior national flag takes the position of honour at the right-hand side of the line facing the direction of movement (the left of an observer watching the line approach). When passing the person taking the salute the flag should be lowered so that the staff is horizontal. This can be done by simply lowering the staff straight ahead, or by lowering the staff towards the person taking the salute and then swinging it round to straight ahead. All the movements should be slow and dignified. After the salute, the flag should be raised again. With Crossed Flags Whenever crossed with the flag of another nation or organization, the senior national flag should be on the left of the observer facing the flag. Its staff should be in front of the staff of the other flag.

Suspended Vertically Above a Street Care should be taken to ensure that all flags suspended vertically across a street are hung to be seen from the same direction. Flat Against a Surface Union Flag – If hung horizontally or vertically, the broad white diagonal should be uppermost in the top-left corner. Other flags – If hung vertically, the edge that would normally be the top of the flag should be on the left, so, for example, ensigns have their Union Flag canton in the upper left corner. On ensigns that have an armorial badge, if possible the badge should be upright, and the correct way round. On a Speaker’s Platform When displayed from a staff, on a speaker’s platform, the senior national flag should be placed on the right-hand side of the speaker, and therefore to the audience’s left. For interior or parade use a ‘dress flag’ may be used. This is sometimes made of silk or satin with a fringe around three sides. The fringe can be gold or red/white/blue for the Union Flag, red/white for St. George’s Cross, blue/white for St. Andrew’s Cross and green/white for the Red Dragon. The fringe is purely decorative.

Double-Flagging Sometimes it may be desired to display two flags when only one flagpole is available. As long as both flags are British this is possible. The senior flag should fly at the top, with a gap of about 30cm (12”), assuming there is enough vertical space on the pole. For example, the Union Flag can be flown over the flag of England, Scotland or Wales (as shown), or over a county, city or house flag. When flags are at half-mast the lower flag must be removed. As a Pall for a Coffin If a national flag is to be used on a coffin, it should be placed so that the top-left corner of the flag is over the deceased’s left shoulder. The flag should be removed before interment or cremation and folded. If the flag is to be retained by the next of kin it can be folded using the Royal Navy’s method shown here, based on a 1:2 flag (138cm x 276cm) with no fittings (ie.

ropes, toggles or clips), or using the method shown above : A Coffin with a Fitted Cover (if a flag is used, 1:2 proportions fit the shape of the coffin better) The Union Flag is pulled taut. The Union Flag is folded in half, lengthways (Fig. 1). Keeping the Union Flag taught it is then folded in half (lengthways) a second time (Fig. 2). A straight fold of 1/14 of the flag’s length (20cm on a casket cover) is taken from the foot of the Union Flag (Fig. 3). This fold may not be necessary, or may need to be a different length, depending upon the shape, size and material of the flag being folded – practise first! The first triangular fold is made ensuring it is within 5mm of the straight edge (Fig. 4). The triangular folding procedure continues until it reaches the head of the Union Flag (Figs. 5, 6 & 7). Any remainder is tucked away into the fold of the triangular shape (Fig. 8 & 9). The Union Flag ready for presentation (Fig. 10).

On Vehicles A car flag should be placed on a staff fitted to the front-right wing, in the centre of front edge of the bonnet, or in the centre of the front edge of the roof. If two flags are to be flown, the senior flag should be on the front-right wing and the junior flag on the front-left wing. When flags are painted onto a vehicle, or on the tail fin of an aircraft, the flag on the port side should show the obverse of the flag (ie. the flagpole on the left), while that on the starboard side should show the reverse (ie. the flagpole on the right). On surfaces perpendicular to the direction of travel (eg. the back of the vehicle) the obverse of the flag should be shown. On Uniforms When flag shoulder patches are worn on uniforms the flag on the left shoulder or sleeve should show the obverse of the flag (ie. the flagpole at the wearer’s front). If there is a patch on the right shoulder or sleeve it should show the reverse of the flag (ie. still with the flagpole at the wearer’s front). If more than one flag is to be worn, the Union Flag should be at the top.

At Civilian Transport Facilities Civilian marine facilities should fly the Civil Ensign (the undefaced Red Ensign) as their national flag, unless they belong to an organization that holds a warrant for a special ensign, when that ensign should be used instead. Civilian air facilities, such as airports and airfields, should fly the Civil Air Ensign as their national flag, rather than the Union Flag. They may additionally fly the flag of England, Scotland or Wales and the appropriate county flag. The Civil Air Ensign Pennants It is sometimes impractical to fly a full-size flag throughout the year – flags can wear out quickly, especially if they are flown in adverse conditions. Bare flagpoles are a sad sight. The pennant, or vimpel, is a solution to these problems. The long narrow streamer-like flags are designed to be left flying day and night. The optional single point attachment and the narrow tail reduce wear and their length means that they can be easily repaired.

Union Wales The Royal Standard The Royal Standard (actually the Royal Banner – a standard being an heraldic flag similar to the pennants above) should only be flown whilst the Royal person is on the premises, being hoisted (or broken) on their arrival and lowered following their departure. If the Royal person is to be present in a building, the Lord Chamberlain’s Department or the Royal person’s private secretary should be consulted. They will advise on the flag to be flown. The Royal Standard is never hoisted when the Royal person is passing in procession. The Royal Standard takes precedence over all other flags in the United Kingdom, including the Union Flag. The Royal Standard (in Scotland the design is different) Flags at Half-mast Half-mast means the flag is flown two-thirds of the way up the flagpole, with at least the height of the flag between the top of the flag and the top of the flagpole. Flags cannot be flown at half-mast on poles that are more than 45° from the vertical, but a mourning cravat can be used instead (see below).

When a flag is to be flown at half-mast, it should first be raised all the way to the top of the mast, allowed to remain there for a second and then be lowered to the half-mast position. When it is being lowered from half-mast, it should again be raised to the top of the mast for a second before being fully lowered. When a British national flag is at half-mast, other flags on the same stand of poles should also be at half-mast or should not be flown at all. Flags of foreign nations should not be flown, unless their country is also observing mourning. The Royal Standard never flies at half-mast. It represents the Monarchy, which is continuous, and it would therefore be inappropriate for it to fly at half-mast. Flags should be flown at half-mast on the following occasions: From the announcement of the death until the funeral of the Sovereign, except on Proclamation Day when flags are flown at full-mast following the proclamation. From the announcement of the death until the funeral of a member of the Royal Family styled ‘Royal Highness’, subject to special commands from the Sovereign in each case.

On the day of the announcement of the death and on the day of the funeral of other members of the Royal Family, subject to special commands from the Sovereign in each case. The funerals of foreign Rulers, subject to special commands from the Sovereign in each case. The funerals of Prime Ministers and ex-Prime Ministers of the United Kingdom, subject to special commands from the Sovereign in each case. The funerals of First Ministers and ex-First Ministers of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, subject to special commands from the Sovereign in each case. Unless otherwise commanded by the Sovereign, this only applies to flags in their respective countries. At British Embassies, High Commissions and Missions when flags in the host country are flown at half-mast, subject to the discretion of the Chef de Mission. Any other occasions where the Sovereign has given a special command. If the body of a very distinguished citizen is lying in a building, the flag should fly at half-mast on that building until the body has left.

A Stand of Flags at Full-mast The Same Stand at Half-mast An alternative mark of mourning, used when half-masting is unsuitable, is to add a black cravat or ribbon to the top of the flag, at the hoist. The above cover Royal and National Mourning, but flags may be flown at half-mast on private or non-Government buildings on other relevant occasions. Flags fly at full-mast on Remembrance Sunday. Mourning Cravats The Proper Disposal of Flags When a flag becomes tattered or faded and is no longer in a suitable condition for use, it should be destroyed in a dignified way, for example by burning, tearing or cutting into strips that no longer resemble the original flag.

Footnotes The Union Flag The national flag of England, Scotland or Wales (whichever is hosting the event) The national flags of the Commonwealth in order of original accession to the Commonwealth (date shown in brackets): Canada (11 Dec 1931, dominion status 1867), Australia (11 Dec 1931, dominion status 1901), New Zealand (11 Dec 1931, dominion status 1907), South Africa (11 Dec 1931, dominion status 1910), India (14/15 Aug 1947), Pakistan (14/15 Aug 1947), Sri Lanka (4 Feb 1948), Ghana (6 Mar 1957), Malaysia (31 Aug 1957), Nigeria (1 Oct 1960), Cyprus (13 Mar 1961), Sierra Leone (27 Apr 1961), Tanzania (9 Dec 1961), Jamaica (6 Aug 1962), Trinidad and Tobago (31 Aug 1962), Uganda (9 Oct 

1962), Kenya (12 Dec 1963), Malawi (6 Jul 1964), Malta (21 Sep 1964), Zambia (24 Oct 1964), The Gambia (18 Feb 1965), Singapore (15 Oct 1965), Guyana (26 May 1966), Botswana (30 Sep 1966), Lesotho (4 Oct 1966), Barbados (30 Nov 1966), Mauritius (12 Mar 1968), Swaziland (6 Sep 1968), Nauru (1 Nov 1968), Tonga (4 Jun 1970), Samoa (28 Aug 1970), Fiji Islands (10 Oct 1970), Bangladesh (18 Apr 1972), The Bahamas (10 Jul 1973), Grenada (7 Feb 1974), Papua New Guinea (16 Sep 1975), Seychelles (29 Jun 1976), Solomon Islands (7 Jul

 1978), Tuvalu (1 Oct 1978), Dominica (3 Nov 1978), Saint Lucia (22 Feb 1979), Kiribati (12 Jul 1979), Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (27 Oct 1979), Vanuatu (30 Jul 1980), Belize (21 Sep 1981), Antigua and Barbuda (1 Nov 1981), Maldives (9 Jul 1982), Saint Christopher and Nevis (19 Sep 1983), Brunei Darussalam (1 Jan 1984), Namibia (21 Mar 1990), Cameroon (13 Nov 1995), Mozambique (13 Nov 1995), Rwanda (29 Nov 2009) The Commonwealth Flag Order for United Nations Events The United Nations Flag The national flags of the United Nations members in order of their name as used at the UN.

The exceptions to the normal alphabetical order are (with the sorting letter underlined): Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea), Myanmar (Burma), Republic of Korea (South Korea), Republic of Moldova (Moldova), The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (Macedonia), Timor Leste (East Timor), United Republic of Tanzania (Tanzania) The United Nations Flag Order for European Union Events The European Union Flag The national flags in order of their name in their primary local language. The local form is shown where its sorting letter differs from English: Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Denmark, Deutschland (Germany), España (Spain), Estonia, France, Hellás (Greece), Ireland, Italy, Kypros (Cyprus), Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Magyarország (Hungary), Malta, Netherlands, Österreich (Austria), Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Suomi (Finland), Sweden, United Kingdom The European Union Flag English Alphabetical Order To help with international flag displays the nations of the world are listed here in the normal English alphabetical order.

The order uses the short name of the country rather than its formal name (ie. ‘Australia’ rather than ‘Commonwealth of Australia’) and ignores ‘The’. Some of the names that might not be familiar are: Congo-Brazzaville – the former French colony of Congo; Congo-Kinshasa – the former Belgian Congo, now formally called the Democratic Republic of Congo; and Côte d’Ivoire – the Ivory Coast. The countries marked with an asterix (*) are British (the constituent countries of the UK, the Crown Dependencies and the British Overseas Territories); for displays of flags within these countries, dependencies or territories, the local national flag takes precedence immediately after the Union Flag and before any British ensigns (White, RAF, Red, Blue and Civil Air). The remainder should be displayed in alphabetical order as shown, with the countries that make up the United Kingdom taking precedence. Countries marked with a dagger symbol (†) are dependencies of other nations. Please note that the Taiwan flag may cause offence to representatives of the People’s Republic of China.

United Kingdom Zimbabwe Footnotes [6] Only one Royal Standard is normally flown, and the order of precedence is: The Royal Standard of HM The Queen, The Personal Flags of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, HRH The Prince of Wales and Duke of Rothesay, HRH Prince William of Wales, HRH Prince Harry of Wales, HRH The Duke of York, HRH The Earl of Wessex, HRH The Princess Royal, HRH The Duke of Gloucester, HRH The Duke of Kent, HRH Prince Michael of Kent, HRH Princess Alexandra, The Other Members’ Standard. [7] When these ensigns are flown in place of the Union Flag they take the same precedence as the Union Flag. Appendix C – United Kingdom Flag Specifications The normal proportions for the national flags of the United Kingdom are 3:5 on land, but ensigns are customarily made in proportion 1:2. flagsonline.net Flag of Australia Colours: Blue, Red and White. Proportions: Width to Length = 1:2 The Australian National Flag (1901) Before Federation, Australia�s colonies flew the flags of the United Kingdom.

The separate colonies adopted different badges which they superimposed on British blue ensigns from 1870, but there was no uniting flag for Australia, other than those of the United Kingdom. With Federation on 1 January 1901 and the joining of all Australians under the Commonwealth of Australia, a new flag was needed for the new nation. A worldwide competition was held and more than 30,000 designs were submitted, from which five almost identical designs were chosen. Prize money of �200 was divided among the winners, and a flag embodying the designs was first flown on 3 September 1901. Over the next few years, changes were made to the number of points shown on the Federation Star and the stars of the Southern Cross, and the flag enjoyed widespread use. At this time it was known as the Commonwealth blue ensign. It was not until 1953 that the name of the flag was officially proclaimed the Australian National Flag, under the Flags Act 1953. This Act was signed into law by Queen Elizabeth II on 14 February 1954. The current flag dates from the 15th of April 1954.

The Symbolic Meaning Like many other countries in the British Commonwealth, Australia maintains the Union Jack in the upper hoist, symbolizing the country's historical link to Great Britain. The Federation Star located beneath the Union Jack represents unity, with a point for each of the six states and a seventh point representing the territories. The five stars in the fly of the flag symbolise the constellation the Southern Cross, representing the stars Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Delta each with seven points and Epsilon with five points because it is not as bright as the other stars in the constellation. The Southern Cross is a prominent constellation of the southern hemisphere. It denotes Australia's geographical place in the world Thus, the flag represents Australia's history, its unity and its place in the universe. PARTS OF THE FLAG PROCEDURE FOR THE DISPLAY OF THE AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL FLAG The Australian National Flag must be accorded the dignity required by a national symbol and as such, correct procedure should be followed. We note a few points that may assist in the flying of the flag, and following these, an illustrated guide to help citizens, clubs, large organizations and companies correctly and effectively display the flag.

The flag should be flown aloft and free, with all parts of the flag able to be seen readily. It should be raised quickly and lowered slowly and ceremonially. It should be well illuminated if it is to be flown at night. It should be flown on all Commonwealth Government buildings during working hours. It is encouraged that companies and private citizens also fly the Australian National Flag. When the Australian National Flag is flown with flags of other sovereign nations, it should be of the same size and fly at the same height as all other flags. If more than one flag is flown, each flag should fly on a separate flagpole with the Australian National Flag taking the place of honour. The Australian National Flag should be the first flag raised and the last flag lowered, unless the number of flags and attendants allows them to be raised and lowered together. When the Australian National Flag is flown alone in front of an establishment where there are two flagpoles, it should be flown on the flagpole on the left as one faces the flag. If there are more than two flagpoles, it should be flown in the centre, or as near to the centre as possible. This is so whether the flagpoles are positioned in the grounds or on top of buildings.

When the Australian National Flag is flown with flags of other sovereign nations, the Australian National Flag takes the prime position. If it is flown with one other flag of a sovereign nation, the Australian National Flag should be on the left as one faces the flags. If the total number of flags is even, the Australian National Flag should be flown on the left as one faces the flags in front of an establishment. If the total number of flags flown is odd, the Australian National Flag should be flown in the centre. If the flagpoles are arranged in a semi-circle, the Australian National Flag should fly in the centre of those of other sovereign nations. If the flagpoles are arranged in a complete circle, the Australian National Flag should fly opposite the entrance of the building, the arena or other structure responsible for the display. If there are two Australian National Flags available, one should be flown at either end of those of other sovereign nations. If the Australian National Flag is flown with flags that are other than those of sovereign nations, it should fly on the left as one faces the flagpoles. For example, it could be flying with State flags, pennants, flags representing clubs and so on.

If there are two Australian National Flags available they should fly at either end of the other flags, each on its own separate flagpole. In a procession, the Australian National Flag should always take the lead, or have the prime position. If carried in a line as shown above, the Australian National Flag should be carried at either end. If there is only one flag available, then the Australian National Flag should be carried in the centre if the total number of flags is odd. If the total number of flags is even, it should be carried by the marches on the left as one faces the marchers. If the Australian National Flag is to be displayed on a wall, the upper hoist of the flag should be on the left as one faces the flag, no matter whether the flag is suspended horizontally or vertically. If the Australian National Flag is to be displayed on a horizontal rope across a street, it should face north in an east-west street, and east in a north-south street. The flag will thus be on the left of one facing east or south respectively. If it is desired that the Australian National Flag cover a casket or a coffin, the upper hoist should be draped over the left shoulder of the deceased.

The flag should be taken from the casket before burial or cremation. IMPROPER USE OR DISPLAY OF THE AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL FLAG The Australian National Flag should not be permitted to lie upon the ground. It should be correctly fastened so that it will not: fall on the ground. It should not be used to hide spaces that may exist between the floor and the lower level of a desk, dais or platform. The Australian National Flag should not be employed as a cover for statues or monuments. It should not be used as a cover for a plaque or such at an unveiling ceremony. It should not be used as a cover for tables or chairs. The Australian National Flag should not be defaced by any object or badge attached or superimposed on it. It should not be flown together with the Australian Red Ensign. DAYS WE COMMEMORATE IN AUSTRALIA The following days are annually commemorated throughout Australia and on these occasions the Australian National Flag may be flown on any additional flagpoles on public buildings, by organizations and by private citizens. However, if the days of national commemoration fall regularly on public holidays, the flying of the Australian National Flag may be restricted to principal government buildings and post offices.

JANUARY 1 NOVEMBER 11 Remembrance Day. We remember the times of war and the losses incurred. Note that flags should be flown at the top of the mast from 8.00am until 10.30am, at half mast from 10.30am until 11.02am after the two minutes of silence and again at the top of the mast from 11.02am for the remainder of the day. There are further days that occur during the year which are of significance to the nation and Australians are informed of these by Government as they occur. THE AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL FLAG AT HALF MAST The responsible Government Minister directs that the Australian National Flag be flown at half mast as a sign that the country is in mourning. To achieve the half mast position, the flag should be raised to the top of the flagpole, then in a continuing movement, lowered slowly to half mast. It is important that the flag appears to be at half mast and not to have fallen away from the top of the flagpole. This will generally be attained when the top of the flag is one third of the total length of the flagpole from the top.

Before lowering the flag for the day, it should be raised once again to the top of the flagpole and then lowered slowly to the ground. If a period of mourning is desired by local authorities in particular municipalities or towns, it is correct for the Australian National Flag to be flown at half mast on the building within which the deceased is lying in state. It should be raised when the deceased is no longer lying in state. THE AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL FLAG AS A SIGNAL OF DISTRESS When a flag is flown upside down it acts as a distress signal. Unless genuinely wishing to signal distress, The Australian National Flag should never be flown upside down. TO FOLD AND STORE THE AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL FLAG 1. Start like this (see below). 2. Fold lengthwise bottomside to topside once and then once again. 3. Bring the ends together. 4. Now concertina by folding backwards and forwards towards the hoist edge. 5. Keep flag bundled folding backwards by winding the halyard around and under itself. DISPOSING OF THE AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL FLAG When a flag becomes dilapidated and is no longer in a suitable condition for use, it should be destroyed in a dignified way.

In the past this was generally by burning, but today, with many flags made from polyester, burning can produce toxic fumes. It is considered acceptable to cut the flag into small pieces until it is unrecognizable. Description and dimensions | Ministry for Culture and Heritage Get the full story Description and dimensions The New Zealand Flag has a royal blue background with a Union Jack in the first quarter, and four five-pointed red stars with white borders on the fly. The New Zealand Flag. The current New Zealand Flag has a deep blue background. In the top left corner, filling half the left side, is the Union Jack design showing red and white crosses on a blue background. The cross in the forefront is red on a white background. The two red and white crosses in the background are diagonal, with the red cross being superimposed over the white one. On the right half of the flag are four stars in the formation of the Southern Cross constellation. Each star is red with a white border, and has five points. Admiral Sir Albert Hastings Markham, KCB designed the New Zealand Flag. Read a Wikipedia profile of Admiral Markham here.

Original description of the design The notice that appeared in the New Zealand Gazette on 27 June 1902 gave this technical description of the stars and their positions on the New Zealand Flag: The centres of the stars forming the long limb of the cross shall be on a vertical line on the fly, midway between the Union Jack and the outer edge of the fly, and equidistant from its upper and lower edges; and the distance apart of the centres of the stars shall be equal to thirty-six sixtieths the hoist of the ensign. The centres of the stars forming the short limb of the cross shall be on a line intersecting the vertical limb at an angle of 82 therewith, and rising from near the lower fly corner of the Union Jack towards the upper fly corner of the ensign, its point of intersection with the vertical line being distant from the centre of the uppermost star of the cross twelve-sixtieths of the hoist of the ensign.

The distance of the centre of the star nearest the outer edge of the fly from the point of intersection shall be equal to twelve-sixtieths of the hoist of the ensign, and the distance of the centre of the star nearest the Union Jack from the point of intersection shall be equal to fourteen-sixtieths of the hoist of the ensign. The star nearest the fly edge of the ensign shall measure five-sixtieths, the star at the top of the cross and that nearest to the Union Jack shall each measure six-sixtieths, and the star at the bottom of the cross shall measure seven-sixtieths of the hoist of the ensign across their respective red points, and the width of the white borders to the several stars shall in all cases be equal to one one-hundred-and-twentieth of the hoist of the ensign. Proportions The New Zealand Flag can be made to any size, with the length always twice the width.

Question: What name is given to the edge of a flag nearest the flagpole?
Answer: HOIST